how white should my teeth be

JAPANESE TATTOO: THE COMPLETE GUIDE!

Traditional Japanese motifs, designs, and stylistic elements continue to be a major source of inspiration for contemporary tattoo artists. Many artists enjoy blending classic symbols with modern touches, but one thing remains consistent across all these variations: the deep roots of “irezumi,” the art of traditional Japanese tattooing.

A HISTORY OF TATTOOING IN JAPAN

The history of tattooing in Japan spans centuries, with its origins seen in the tattooed faces of ancient clay figurines. These early representations indicate that tattooing was practiced as far back as the Jomon period. By the 7th century, tattoos evolved into a form of punishment, marking prisoners, courtesans, and criminals. This punitive practice persisted for over 1,000 years, shaping the initial role of tattoos in Japanese society.

In the 18th century, however, Japanese tattoo art underwent a transformation. Traditional tattoos, known as irezumi, became associated with vibrant and intricate designs, gaining popularity among lower social classes like laborers, peasants, and members of criminal organizations such as gangs. Despite the colorful, artistic nature of these tattoos, their association with the lower classes and their long history of use for punishment led to their eventual ban in Japan. Interestingly, tattooing was still permitted on foreigners, as a way to maintain a separation between the native population and outside influences.

SYMBOLISM IN JAPANESE TATTOOS

Japan is a land rich in symbolism, where every element of life, from nature to spirituality, holds deep significance. Rooted in Shintoism, the traditional religion that revolves around the belief in spirits and the worship of nature, many of Japan’s symbols reflect a connection to the natural world, where animals—both real and mythical—play a prominent role. Japanese tattoos, known for their intricate detail and vivid imagery, often embody a variety of themes, with each design holding a unique meaning.

DRAGON

One of the most iconic symbols in Japanese tattoo art is the dragon. Known for its majestic and mystical qualities, the dragon represents a wide array of values, such as power, justice, wisdom, and the ability to keep secrets. The dragon also symbolizes decisiveness and strength of character. Those who choose dragon tattoos are often seen as individuals who are not afraid to push beyond conventional limits, seeking to gain new knowledge and achieve greatness. The dragon’s deep-rooted meaning and dynamic presence make it a favorite motif in Japanese tattoo culture.

SNAKE

In Japanese culture, the snake is a symbol with complex and dual meanings. On one hand, it represents patience, calmness, and the ability to remain composed in challenging situations. On the other hand, it can also signify cunning and hypocrisy, reflecting negative traits in some interpretations.

Due to its somewhat ambiguous nature, snakes are rarely depicted as the central figure in Japanese tattoos. Instead, they are often paired with other symbols that carry positive connotations to counterbalance their more negative associations. For instance, a snake entwined with chrysanthemums is a common motif. In this context, the flowers act as a protective charm, symbolizing well-being, harmony, and a shield against conflicts, illness, and misfortune. This pairing highlights the snake’s ability to protect and guide while mitigating any darker meanings.

TIGER

The tiger in Japanese tattoo art is a powerful symbol, representing strength, courage, and a complex personality. Tigers are often depicted in various poses, each holding distinct meaning regarding the wearer’s character.

  • Resting tiger: A tattoo featuring a resting tiger symbolizes wisdom gained through life experiences, composure, and inner strength. It reflects a person who has earned respect through their calm demeanor and steady resolve.
  • Aggressive tiger: In contrast, an aggressive tiger tattoo signifies a person who has faced and overcome hardships. This representation shows a fierce individual, unafraid to fight for their beliefs and pursue their goals relentlessly, no matter the obstacles.

KOI CARP

Despite their small size, these fish symbolize masculine strength, family happiness, and resilience for the Japanese. The koi carp is believed to bring luck to its owner. The larger the design, the stronger the positive impact on the person’s life. A pair of fish represents harmony in a relationship between a man and a woman. If the koi carp is depicted swimming in a turbulent water flow, it means the wearer is ready to overcome obstacles and can withstand them. A calm water setting signifies achieved success and pride.

BAKU

A mythical monster with the eyes of a rhinoceros, the paws of a tiger, and the trunk of an elephant. Despite its frightening appearance, this creature protects people from nightmares and illnesses.

DEMONS

Demons hold a prominent place in traditional Japanese tattoo art, often drawn from epic tales and legends. These mythical beings, often depicted with vivid and colorful features, represent more than just fearsome creatures—they embody transformation and protection. According to Japanese folklore, wicked individuals can transform into demons, with many once being human themselves. Tattoos featuring these figures are believed to offer protection against negativity and evil forces:

  • Raijin – The god of thunder in Japanese culture, Raijin is portrayed as a horned demon with black skin, often shown tearing a scroll with his teeth. As a protector of the Buddhist faith, Raijin is considered a benevolent deity who drives away evil spirits.
  • Oni-Ondeko – Known as the dancing demon, Oni-Ondeko is depicted with three comma-like symbols called mons, representing balance and harmony between male and female energy. This demon is a symbol of prosperity, abundance, and good harvests.
  • Rokurokubi – These creatures appear human by day, but at night, they can stretch their necks to terrifying lengths and transform their appearance to frighten others. The concept of transformation makes them both mysterious and fearsome figures in Japanese folklore.
  • Jankuy – A demon fighter and warrior who took his life through suicide but vowed to protect people. Jankuy’s transformation into a demon is a symbol of redemption and protection. Tattoos of Jankuy, often seen battling Oni, are regarded as powerful charms that ward off evil and safeguard the wearer.

MASKS

Masks are a significant and enigmatic element in Japanese tattoo art, symbolizing the duality of nature and hidden emotions. They are often depicted with a sinister grimace, but this expression conveys strength and resilience rather than baseless aggression, acting as a shield against adversaries. In Eastern mythology, masks are not just decorative but carry deep meanings, representing protection, wisdom, and the complexities of the human experience. The most common types of masks in Japanese tattoos include demonic masks, Hannya masks, and samurai masks.

  • Oni Mask: Oni, demons often shown with enormous fangs and horns, are attendants to the God of Death. While they are protectors of the righteous, they bring misfortune to the wicked. Tattoos featuring Oni masks embody the power to ward off evil and protect the wearer from harm.
  • Tengu Mask: Depicted as humanoid crows or with a bright red face and long nose, Tengu masks symbolize protectors of nature. Known for their fierce loyalty, Tengu punish those who disrespect or harm the natural world. Tattoos of Tengu masks represent nature’s guardianship and the strength to fight against destruction.
  • Samurai Mask (Mengu): Originally worn by warriors in battle, the samurai mask is a symbol of mystery, courage, and steadfastness. It embodies responsibility, loyalty, and the will to overcome challenges. People who wear samurai mask tattoos often conceal their emotions and prefer to act with discretion, displaying resilience in their pursuits.
  • Hannya Mask: The Hannya mask represents a complex demon, once a beautiful woman consumed by jealousy. It is designed with two contrasting expressions—angry on one side and tearful on the other. Hannya masks in tattoos are symbolic of the power of unchecked emotions, serving as a reminder to maintain composure and wisdom. They act as a powerful charm against destructive passions and negative forces.

SEVERED HEAD

The severed head, or namakubi, is a poignant symbol in Japanese tattoo art, often depicted with a sword piercing it. This design is deeply symbolic, representing courage and the willingness to face one’s fate. It is a sign of respect toward a fallen enemy, acknowledging their strength or resolve in battle. The severed head serves as a powerful reminder of the inevitability of punishment for unjust actions, acting as a cautionary emblem for those who act dishonestly or recklessly. Through its depiction, the namakubi symbolizes the harsh realities of life and death, as well as the warrior’s acceptance of their destiny and the consequences of their actions.

The Meanings of Colors in Japanese Tattoo Culture

Traditional Japanese tattoos are renowned for their vivid colors, each carrying a specific, symbolic meaning drawn from ancient culture:

  • White: Revered as a sacred color linked to the gods, symbolizing both spiritual and physical purity. In Buddhism, white also represents death, alongside the potential for new beginnings.
  • Blue: Associated with the boundless seas, blue symbolizes happiness, tranquility, fidelity, stability, and female chastity. It also evokes a sense of mysticism and the unknown.
  • Yellow: This color has dual meanings, representing prosperity and joy. However, in certain regions of Japan, it can also symbolize deceit.
  • Black: Traditionally a masculine color, it symbolizes mystery and fierceness. Historically, black was associated with the samurai class.
  • Purple: Once a color reserved for nobility due to its expensive dye, purple symbolizes strength, nobility, and high status.
  • Red: A color strongly tied to celebration and joy in Japanese culture, red represents passion, happiness, vitality, and prosperity. Red has long been believed to ward off evil spirits, and in Kabuki theater, red streaks on actors’ faces signify justice.
  • Green: Symbolizing eternity, respect for nature, fertility, youth, and energy, green evokes a deep connection to the earth.

Where is the Best Place to Get a Japanese Style Tattoo?

In Japan, the placement of a tattoo is considered to be of great significance, with certain areas being ideal for specific designs:

  • Shoulder: Ideal for designs of animals or samurais, as it is a prominent and visible area.
  • Forearm: A perfect spot for tattoos like a dragon or samurai mask, symbolizing strength and courage.
  • Hand: The wrist is a great location for smaller, minimalist tattoos like a koi carp, tiger face, or dragon, signifying serious intent.
  • Neck: Best suited for elegant designs like chrysanthemum, peony, or lotus tattoos.
  • Chest: Traditionally adorned with tattoos of deep philosophical or romantic significance, as it is close to the heart.
  • Back: Frequently used for large, expansive designs, often covering the shoulders to the small of the back to maximize their symbolic power.
  • Leg: Suitable for tattoos that represent strength and vitality, helping to maintain physical health throughout life.

Japanese tattoos often require larger canvases, making full sleeves, chest, back, and abdominal tattoos common. The most expansive designs are often found on the back, depicting scenes from Japanese mythology or epics.

Japanese tattoos are also a popular choice for covering up scars, as their colorful and intricate nature can effectively conceal imperfections like stretch marks, burns, or scars.

How Do Japanese People Feel About Tattoos?

While there is no law against tattoos in Japan, they are often viewed negatively due to their historical association with the yakuza, Japan’s criminal underworld. The social stigma surrounding tattoos often leads to social exclusion or condemnation. In public spaces like onsens (hot springs), individuals with tattoos may be asked to cover them up or avoid entry altogether. Despite this, tattoo enthusiasts in Japan continue to embrace this art form, often concealing their tattoos when necessary.

Cultural Appropriation in Japanese Tattoos

The subject of cultural appropriation in relation to Japanese tattoos is a contentious issue. Some people believe that getting Japanese tattoos outside of the culture is disrespectful, as these symbols are deeply rooted in history and carry significant cultural meaning. Wearing a tattoo simply for its aesthetic value, without understanding its origins, can be seen as trivializing or disrespecting the culture.

How to Choose a Japanese Style Tattoo for Yourself?

When selecting a Japanese tattoo, it’s important to consider the following:

  • Meaning: Ensure the design resonates with you and aligns with the message or symbolism you want to convey.
  • Colors: The color palette is an essential aspect of Japanese tattoos. Take time to choose colors that enhance the meaning of the design.
  • Additional Elements: Elements like patterns, flowers, and creatures can shift the meaning of the tattoo. Choose these details thoughtfully to reflect your personal intentions and the message you wish to communicate.

DIY TOOTHPASTE AND POWER WITH BENTONITE CLAY AND ESENTIAL OILS

There are plenty of all-natural toothpaste options available, but they can be expensive! My Homemade Toothpaste Recipe with Essential Oils provides a toxin-free way to freshen your breath. Our family loves using this tooth powder to maintain a healthy, clean mouth.

This recipe includes bentonite clay, known for its detoxifying properties. With a touch of stevia for sweetness and essential oils for flavor, this toothpaste tastes amazing!

THE IMPORTANCE OF ORAL HEALTH

Oral health plays a vital role in overall wellness, and problems in the mouth can affect the entire body. Oral issues go far beyond cavities and bad breath—over 80% of disease symptoms stem from mouth problems. Gum disease, for example, increases the risk of heart disease (1), and there is even a connection between mouth bacteria and thickened arteries (2).

Unfortunately, many people face disease-promoting dental procedures because they don’t prioritize oral health. By focusing on preventative care, many of these interventions can be avoided. While there are plenty of advanced techniques, it’s crucial to stick to the basics:

  • Brush your teeth – Make sure to brush after every meal. Take your time to remove all food particles thoroughly.
  • Floss regularly – Flossing removes stubborn food bits from between your teeth and stimulates your gums, reducing your risk of gum disease. I recommend flossing at night after eating.
  • Oil pulling – Have you tried oil pulling? It’s an incredibly effective oral health practice to add to your routine. Learn how to get started with oil pulling today.
  • Visit the dentist – Did you know there are holistic dentists? They blend traditional treatments with natural options and often provide alternatives to harmful procedures like mercury fillings. Never skip your dental checkups!
  • Use essential oils for oral health – Certain essential oils are proven to support oral hygiene. These oils are great for homemade oral products like toothpaste or mouthwash.

By incorporating these basic practices into your daily routine, you can help maintain optimal oral health and reduce the need for costly or harmful interventions.

3 HARMFUL INGREDIENTS IN TOOTHPASTE

In my opinion, we should be extra cautious with the oral health products we use since we end up ingesting them. Unfortunately, many store-bought products are filled with toxins. Here are just a few of the harmful chemicals commonly found in most tubes of toothpaste:

FLUORIDE

Fluoride is a harmful ingredient commonly found in most oral care products. For years, oral health specialists believed fluoride was essential for healthy teeth, but we now know that’s not true. Fluoride is classified as a neurotoxic chemical, and consuming too much of it can lead to fluoride toxicity (3). This can affect tooth coloring, kidney function, and more. If you have young children at home, this is especially concerning! Many store-bought toothpaste brands have kid-friendly flavors that encourage little ones to use more than necessary, increasing the risk of fluoride toxicity.

ASPARTAME

You wouldn’t brush your teeth with sugar, so many companies add a sugar substitute called aspartame to improve the taste of toothpaste. Aspartame is often marketed as a low-calorie alternative to sugar, but studies show it can lead to increased food consumption (4). It can also trigger headaches, spiked blood sugar levels, and other side effects (5). In this recipe, we use stevia as a sweetener instead. It tastes better than aspartame, and best of all, it has no harmful side effects!

SODIUM LAURYL SULFATE

This toxin is responsible for the foamy texture in most toothpastes. Sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) is an environmental toxin that can wreak havoc on your body (6). Interestingly, researchers use SLS to intentionally create skin and eye irritations during product testing. SLS can also cause canker sores (7), which is the complete opposite of promoting oral health! It’s one of the worst toxins for your body and should be avoided at all costs.

NATURAL ORAL HEALTH INGREDIENTS

There’s a better way to take care of your teeth, and it starts with using natural, non-toxic ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to make this recipe:

  • Essential Oils: Many essential oils have antimicrobial properties, making them ideal for toothpaste. They can freshen your breath, fight plaque, and even help with canker sores. Plus, they add a nice scent! Here are some of my favorite combinations:
  • Peppermint: Fights bad breath, smells fresh, and gives you a burst of energy in the morning!
  • Clove and Orange: A soothing blend for sensitive teeth.
  • Eucalyptus, Rosemary, and Orange: Helps with whitening your teeth.
  • Lime, Lemon, and Grapefruit: Great for boosting your mood!
  • Wintergreen: Offers a minty freshness, perfect for tackling stubborn bad breath.
  • Distilled Water: Tap water often contains fluoride, which we want to avoid. It can also have other toxins that contribute to health issues like obesity, diabetes, and birth defects. I recommend using distilled or purified water for the cleanest, safest option.
  • Bentonite Clay: This clay, derived from volcanic ash, helps absorb toxins in the mouth while providing essential minerals that can strengthen your teeth. Bonus: It can also aid in whitening your teeth.
  • Stevia Powder: Stevia is a natural sweetener that helps balance out the taste of bentonite clay. A little goes a long way!
  • Himalayan Pink Salt: Saltwater is often recommended after dental surgery to reduce bacteria (8), and salt is highly effective for combating bad breath. Plus, if you have sensitive teeth, Himalayan salt can help reduce discomfort.

This simple, natural recipe is all you need to promote healthy, toxin-free oral care!

HOMEMADE TOOTHPASTE RECIPE

This DIY is super easy to make! In just a few minutes, you’ll have everything you need to detox your mouth naturally.

To turn the tooth powder into toothpaste, simply add ¼ cup of hot purified or distilled water and 1 tablespoon of extra-virgin, unrefined coconut oil. You can add more coconut oil as needed to achieve your desired consistency.

For added teeth-whitening benefits, open capsules of activated charcoal and mix them into the tooth powder. After using this toothpaste, follow up with mouthwash, and be sure to brush your teeth again after rinsing.

Since bentonite clay can react with metal, it’s important to make and store this recipe in a glass or ceramic container to preserve its effectiveness.

STEP ONE: MIX THE ESSENTIAL OILS

Mix your chosen essential oils in a small glass container or glass measuring cup, then set aside for later use.

STEP TWO: ADD DRY INGREDIENTS

Place the bentonite clay, stevia, and sea salt in a food processor and blend until well combined.

STEP THREE: ADD ESSENTIAL OILS

With the machine running, slowly add the mixed essential oils to the food processor and process for a few more seconds. The mixture should be granular and slightly damp.

STEP FOUR: BRUSH YOUR TEETH

Store the mixture in a glass jar with a lid. To use, apply just enough of the homemade tooth powder or toothpaste to cover your toothbrush. Wet the brush with water and brush as usual.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, this all-natural homemade toothpaste and tooth powder is a simple, effective, and toxin-free way to maintain optimal oral health. By using ingredients like bentonite clay, essential oils, and natural sweeteners, you can avoid harmful chemicals found in store-bought products while reaping the benefits of a cleaner, healthier mouth. With just a few easy steps, you can create a product that not only freshens your breath but also supports long-term oral wellness. Enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing exactly what’s in your toothpaste, and feel good about giving your family a safer, more natural option for oral care.